Instant messaging systems--a type of social networking technology that connects people who are physically separated but working together--have seen a dramatic rise in use in globally dispersed organizations, yet there is an absence of academic research in predictive factors of instant messaging adoption. This study examined the factors influencing the intent to use instant messaging technology in the information technology industry, revealing predictive factors of behavioral intent to use the instant messaging technology. The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between predictive factors and intended use of instant messaging technology, and the moderating effects of age, gender, and experience with the technology on those relationships. A quantitative approach based on the unified theory of acceptance and use of technology and the information systems success model was used, with user responses gathered through an anonymous survey based on existing survey instruments. Data analysis was conducted using partial least squares regression and path analysis. Results indicate that the perception of increased individual performance is the most powerful predictor of behavioral intention to use the instant messaging technology in a professional IT setting. Age and gender showed mixed results in moderating the predictors. Actual use was not shown to be significantly affected by the predictors. Social wellbeing of employees may be influenced by their ability to perform in the virtual world. The results of this study may inform leaders of organizations with groups working across long distances and multiple time zones of the indicators to increased personal and organizational performance. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://www.proquest.com/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]